Monsignor close to comeback Monsignor was today reported on course to make his long-awaited return to action next month after two racecourse workouts.But his programme remains unclear, with trainer Mark Pitman even hinting that he could be aimed at the Champion Hurdle.The gelding was rated one of the country`s best chasing prospects after winning the Weatherbys Champion Bumper and Royal & SunAlliance Novices` Hurdle at successive Cheltenham Festivals, only to miss last season through injury.Pitman has been nursing him back to fitness and told Sky Sports Racing News programme today: 'He did get exceptionally large during his period of rest but he is doing loads of work now.'He is doing loads and loads of cantering, we`re giving him three-parts pieces of work and he has been to Stratford twice - they very kindly let us go there and he galloped a good, strong two and a half miles both times.'We are just building him up, hopefully we will have him ready next month.'Pitman retains plenty of faith in Monsignor, who is unbeaten in six outings over hurdles to date.'I don`t think you can pick holes in his form,' the trainer said. 'He took on everybody that was around and beat them - and beat them well.'Best Mate probably gave him most to do when he chased him home in the Tolworth at Sandown but that was over two miles - we haven`t even ruled out a crack at the Champion Hurdle with the horse as he has shown he can win a Grade One race over two miles.'Coral appear to expect the seven-year-old to be campaigned over fences as they make him 10-1 co-second favourite for the Royal & SunAlliance Novices` Chase, behind French gelding Japhet on 5-1.
